The goalkeeper said last year that he would not renew his existing deal that ends in the summer, and the Blaugrana boss says it has left La Liga's champions struggling to find an ideal replacement.

"I'm very much surprised by Valdes," Martino told reporters ahead of Sunday's clash with Levante.

"His decision not to further his contract put the club in trouble because the goalkeeper has a very large impact on the team. It's the only position where you know a player won't be there and that means we have to review our choices."

Leaders Barca are on 50 points ahead of Atletico Madrid on goal difference and Real Madrid are three further behind at the halfway stage in the Primera Division, and Martino suggested a triple-figure points tally will be needed to triumph in 2014.

He added: "The situation is going to be close and, if the three teams keep the consistency over the season, more than 100 points will be needed to win the championship."

Barca visit Valencia to face Levante on Sunday, with kick-off at 18:00GMT.